Chris Sutton calls out 'sloppy' Celtic star over weather excuse
Former Celtic star Chris Sutton has had a pop at Bhoys star Sam Johnstone after Sunday's comeback win over Hibernian. The Bhoys didn't have it easy against the Premiership's bottom club at Easter Road, with Camilo Durán ultimately scoring the winner just before half-time after a chaotic first five minutes of the game that saw both teams score.
It was a rather ugly game that was lacking in any real quality, and the weather certainly played a part. There was a swirling wind at Easter Road that made it difficult for either team to consistently create chances.
Meanwhile, Celtic goalkeeper Sam Johnstone spoke about the 'tough conditions' after the game, suggesting that it made it difficult for him in terms of distribution.
He said: "Yeah, a great win. Tough place to come. Really tough conditions, That's a massive win for us. They gave it their all, and we had to defend really well. Difficult, but for everyone it's the same.
"When the ball goes in the air, you don't know where it's going to go, There were a few sloppy passes. It was tough but the lads dug in."
But former Hoops striker Sutton, who was on commentary for the game, wasn't impressed with that excuse.
He posted on X: "Sam Johnstone blaming the weather for sloppy passing is a stretch I think (two laughing emojis).
He added on Celtic generally: "Can’t fault Celtic domestically. Not a great performance but 3 points against Hibs after another European loss. Still big concerns over that midfield area and second balls the longer the game went on. Duran class finish but looks unhappy on the right. Gutted for AJ (Alistair Johnston) hope he’s ok!"
In fairness to Johnstone, he does say that the conditions were the same for everyone, but it's true that he has struggled with his distribution since arriving at the club. Rangers were able to take advantage of it in the most recent derby, and there will be a concern over other teams doing the same after what was seen against Hibs.
Johnstone is solid enough in other areas of his game, at least on the evidence we have seen so far, but it's clear Viljami Sinisalo has the advantage in terms of distribution.
Sinisalo always comes high up the pitch and demands the ball, relishing the opportunity to get the ball at his feet and make passes. Johnstone seems to dread such a situation, and we have seen why on a few occasions.
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